What is a criterion for initiating fetal heart monitoring?

Initiating fetal heart monitoring is typically done once the mother enters active labor, which generally occurs around 4 cm of cervical dilation. This is the point at which continuous monitoring can provide valuable data regarding the fetal heart rate and maternal contractions, allowing healthcare providers to assess the well-being of the fetus in relation to the labor process.

Monitoring during this stage helps in detecting any potential fetal distress or complications as the labor progresses, allowing for timely interventions if necessary. While other times, such as during prenatal visits or if complications are suspected, may warrant monitoring, starting at the active labor stage ensures that the monitoring aligns closely with the critical moments of labor when changes can occur rapidly.